The Los Angeles Lakers lost another free agent Monday when Rui Hachimura signed a two-year, $28 million deal with their crosstown rival.
The forward sent a heartfelt message to Lakers fans following the news of the Los Angeles Clippers’ signing.
“Thank you Lakers Nation for the past three years. We had some great moments and I will always remember the memories we made together,” Hachimura said in a statement posted on Instagram.
Rui Hachimura on Instagram: “Thank you Lakers Nation for the past three years. We had some great moments and I will always remember the memories we made together.” pic.twitter.com/AfVLbIEAGs
— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) July 6, 2026
Hachimura spent parts of four seasons donning the purple and gold. The forward was traded to the Lakers by the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kendrick Nunn and three second-round picks.
He is coming off a 2025-26 performance where he averaged 11.5 points per game, 3.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists while shooting 51.4% from the field and 44.3% from three. During his time with the Lakers, Hachimura emerged as a solid three-point shooter and displayed his dominance from beyond the arc in the playoffs.
The 28-year-old finished the postseason averaging 17.5 points and 4.0 rebounds while shooting over 50% from three.
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Now, Hachimura joins a projected Clippers starting lineup featuring Darius Garland, Keaton Wagler, Brandon Ingram and Brook Lopez.
The Lakers have likely concluded a majority of their free agency moves this offseason, but fans are hoping general manager Rob Pelinka is still putting the finishing touches on the roster.
LA has limited financial flexibility, but two glaring needs.
While there was speculation Hachimura would fill the role as versatile wing defender, it’s evident he won’t return for the upcoming season. The Lakers have also been linked to free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, but the team will need to free up cap space in order to ink a deal.
Moreover, the Lakers need a backup center after trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards. Hachimura’s signing is only evidence of the Lakers’ remaining tasks before the season begins.
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